L.A. Film Fest gala screenings include “Beasts,” “Nowhere”

Fest director Allain plans expanded music programming

The Los Angeles Film Festival gala screenings will include Focus’ “Seeking a Friend for the End of the World,” Fox Searchlight’s “Beasts of the Southern Wild” and AFFRM and Participant’s “Middle of Nowhere.”

Additional galas and the full line-up will be announced on May 1. Festival will screen over 200 feature films, shorts, and music videos, representing more than 30 countries, along with the filmmaker retreat, poolside chats and coffee talks. This year, the Assn. of Film Commissioners Intl. will hold its annual Locations show at the L.A. Convention Center in conjunction with LAFF.

Recently-named fest director Stephanie Allain, producer of pics including “Hustle and Flow,” plans to add indie bands to an expanded sked of music events based around the fest’s home at L.A. Live.

Focus will open “Seeking a Friend,” starring Steve Carell and Keira Knightley, on June 22. “Beasts of the Southern Wild” has been set for a June 27 bow and “Middle of Nowhere” will launch Oct. 12.

Woody Allen is expected to attend the North American premiere of his “To Rome With Love,” which is the opening night film on June 14.